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Before sitting down to paint your nails, take the time to organize your products and tools, and to map out your end look. “Choose jewels that are flat-backed and easy to apply, like Swarvoski crystals,” advises Stone, who works with Constance Wu and Lili Reinhart. Once you’ve selected your gems, gather an extra-strength nail glue, a dotting tool, base coat, top coat, and, if you want something other than clear, a base color. As for the layout, Goldstein, who works with Kendall Jenner and Anne Hathaway, recommends leaving a little bit of negative space in between each gem so that it doesn’t look crowded. “If you have smaller nail beds, go for a tiny pearl or jewel,” she says. “You can also focus on just one nail, for a simpler look that’s not overdone.”

Now that you have all your ducks (er — nail products) in a row, start by painting your base coat and color (Goldstein and Stone both prefer a sheer, nude tone as a neutral backdrop to the stones). Let it dry completely, then apply nail glue directly onto your nail where you want to place the gem. Next, dip your dotting tool into the bottle of top coat and gently tap it on the top side of the stone, so that it adheres on the tip of the tool. Carefully set the flat side of the jewel onto your nail and press it in place. Use the dotting tool to apply a bit more glue around the stone for added hold. Continue the process on every nail you want to accent, and finish with a thin layer of top coat on each.

Ready to try your hand at an over-the-top bejeweled manicure? Keep scrolling for a few of our favorite designs by Goldstein and Stone.